McDonald, retired President and CEO of Texas Cattle Feeders Association, died following an inspiring year-long battle with cancer.

Richard Peterson McDonald's life of service to agriculture began with his birth on Feb. 21, 1944, in Clifton to Roy and Werner McDonald. He grew up in San Benito, honing his leadership abilities in FFA and 4-H activities, including serving as Chairman of the State 4-H Council.

Following graduation from San Benito High School, Richard attended Texas A&M University, graduating with a BS in animal science in 1966. He then graduated from Louisiana State University with a MS in 1969 and Ph.D. in 1972 in animal breeding, nutrition and statistics. His first job was with Texas Agricultural Extension Service as an Area Livestock Specialist in the Dallas area.

Dr. McDonald joined Texas Cattle Feeders Association as Executive Assistant in 1974 and retired as President and CEO in 2006, leaving giant footprints on the growth of the Association over more than 30 years. His strengths in research and regulatory areas coincided with the organization's growth. His integrity and credibility in legislative affairs led to major political victories for TCFA and national organizations.

Upon retirement from TCFA, he continued service to cattle organizations across the United States and was a consultant with McCormick Co. in Amarillo until his death.

At the time of his death, Dr. McDonald was serving on the West Texas A&M University Foundation Board and was appointed the Canadian River Compact Commissioner by Gov. Rick Perry in 2009.

Recognitions over the years have included the Distinguished Service to Texas Agriculture Award from Professional Ag Workers of Texas in 1985; Man of the Year in Texas Agriculture from the Texas County Agricultural Agents Association in 1996; Blue and Gold Award from Texas FFA in 1997; Outstanding Alumnus, Texas A & M University in 1999; Gerald W. Thomas Outstanding Agriculturist Award from Texas Tech University in 2002; first recipient Industry Leadership Award, Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame, 2010.

Richard McDonald and Sharon Tolzien were married on Oct. 5, 1979 in Amarillo. Richard was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Amarillo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son, Kelly McDonald, in 2008.

He is survived by his wife Sharon; two sons, Lanny McDonald and his wife Deanna of Amarillo and Lyle McDonald and his wife Myra of Round Rock; one daughter, Lori Price and her husband Danny of Tyler; a daughter-in-law, Kerri McDonald of Amarillo; 12 grandchildren; two brothers, Roy McDonald and wife Rhea of Georgetown and Robert McDonald and wife Darleen of San Benito; sister-in-law, Sandra Woodward and husband Tom of Amarillo; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Richard McDonald Leadership Institute has been established in honor of his legacy. The program offers leadership development and training for young people involved with cattle organizations throughout the United States. Contributions in support of this effort may be sent to: The Richard McDonald Leadership Institute, in care of The Amarillo Area Foundation, 801 S. Fillmore St., Suite 700, Amarillo, TX 79101. Contributions may also be made to Shuter Library of Angel Fire, P.O. Box 298, Angel Fire, NM 87710; or Olivia's Angels, in care of BSA Hospice, P.O. Box 950, Amarillo, TX 79105-9975.

Leave online condolences at www.boxwellbrothers.com.

Amarillo Globe-News, Oct. 31, 2010

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.